Question

read the second stanza of \some keep the sabbath going to church.\

some keep the sabbath in surplice -
i just wear my wings -
and instead of tolling the bell, for church,
our little sexton - sings.

what is the effect of the word \surplice,\ which is a garment worn by the clergy, in this stanza?

it reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the rituals of the church.
it reinforces the poets belief that most people feel the need to attend church.
it reinforces the poets authority by suggesting that she knows quite a bit about religious rituals.
it reinforces the speakers view that great mystery lies at the heart of most religious rituals.

Explanation:

⚡ Using what you learned: close reading methods for poetic texts

Step 1: Analyze the contrast in the stanza

The stanza sets up a direct contrast between traditional, formal church practices and the speaker's personal, nature-based worship:

• Traditional Church: "Some keep the Sabbath in Surplice" (wearing formal, man-made religious garments) and "tolling the Bell".
• Speaker's Experience: "I just wear my Wings" (natural, free, and angelic imagery) and "Our little Sexton – sings" (referring to a songbird acting as a church official).

Step 2: Determine the effect of the word "surplice"

The word "surplice" represents the formal, structured, and external rituals of organized religion. By contrasting this formal garment with her own "Wings," the speaker highlights the difference between rigid human traditions and the simple, natural spirituality she prefers.

Therefore, the word reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the formal rituals of the church.

Answer:

It reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the rituals of the church.